For the first time, donations from new donors will be matched dollar-for-dollar up to $25 by 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Chancellor Christina S. Drale, increasing the impact of contributions and further supporting campus initiatives and student success.

鈥淭his match will provide a powerful incentive for new donors to participate in the Campus Campaign, knowing that their contribution will have an even greater impact,鈥� said Laterika Tooks, director of annual giving. 鈥淲e want to thank Dr. Drale for her continued support.鈥�

糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock has a goal of reaching 40 percent employee giving for 2024. As an added incentive, the Office of Alumni and Development will provide lunch in the Bailey Alumni and Friends Center to the first five departments and units who achieve 100 percent employee giving.

The Campus Campaign highlights the power of collective giving, with employees playing a key role in enhancing campus resources and opportunities for students.

鈥淚 support the Campus Campaign because of all of the students I meet who have different stories, different needs for our scholarships, and who are very appreciative of your support and the scholarships they receive,鈥� said Campus Campaign Chair Anthony Buttrum, scholarship coordinator in the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships. 鈥淲hat we do is about building relationships with one another, with our students, and with people in the community to help us with our goal of providing students with a great education. It is my hope that we will show our support for the university, and it will help bring in additional scholarship dollars and donors for our university.鈥�

The support of university employees also plays a significant role in showing 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock alumni, friends, corporations, foundations, and community partners that the university is worthy of their support.

鈥淲e are in the middle of the Centennial Campaign, and our goal is to raise $250 million by the university鈥檚 100-year anniversary in 2027,鈥� said Christian O鈥橬eal, vice chancellor for university advancement. 鈥淵our support is very important to the success of this campaign. When faculty and staff show their support for the university, it sends a powerful message to the community, alumni, and partners. It demonstrates our collective belief in the institution鈥檚 mission and inspires others to invest in the future of 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock alongside us.鈥�

The university owes a special thanks to the dedicated employees who help lead the Campus Campaign effort across campus. Campus Campaign Steering Committee members include Dr. Aresh Assadi, Emily Bell, Dr. Sheila Brooks, Jessie Burchfield, Anthony Buttrum, Reed Claiborne, Dr. Shannon Collier-Tenison, Katrina Christopher, Alicia Dorn, Dr. Joe Felan, Dr. Anindya Ghosh, Brock Hime, Dr. Barbara L鈥橢plattenier, Dr. Carrie Phillips, and Judy Staley.

鈥淚 think it鈥檚 important for us as employees and faculty members to show our enthusiasm and support for the university because we are setting an example for others to support the university,鈥� said Dr. Joe Felan, associate professor in the School of Business, who has been on the committee for four years.

Campus Campaign ambassadors include Salina Ables, Dr. Al Baker, Sydney Ambrus, Dr. April Chatham-Carpenter, Alex Fountain, Mary French, Amanda Ginger, Dr. Mohammad Goodarzi, Dr. Katie Helms, Dawn Johnson, Sadie Lea, Monica Meadows, Rachel Mercado, Chloe Moses, Belinda Nix, Mercades Parker, Madison Schalk, Vanessa Whitman, and Grace Zafasi.

鈥淚 am so excited to be a Campus Campaign ambassador and represent the Office of Communications and Marketing,鈥� said Sydney Ambrus, social media coordinator and videographer. 鈥淚t was important to me to be a part of the Campus Campaign to not only serve as a liaison between our office and Office of Alumni and Development, but to give back and invest in the community here at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock. The Campus Campaign supports our students, faculty, and staff. Every dollar counts towards growing our programs, aiding in research, and faculty development.鈥�

Tooks also recognized Dr. Aresh Assadi, director of Counseling Services, for his many years of service as Campus Campaign chair by making a donation to Counseling Services in Assadi鈥檚 honor.

鈥淒r. Assadi has served as Campus Campaign chair for six years, and we appreciate your tremendous support for the university,鈥� Tooks said. 鈥淲e know suicide prevention is incredibly important to you, so we have made a contribution in your honor for suicide prevention efforts at the university.鈥�

There are many ways for 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock employees to get involved and show their support for a part of the university that has a special meaning to them. A donation to a scholarship, planned gift, Alumni Association membership, legacy brick, season tickets, becoming a Trojan Champion, and gifts to any area of campus counts as part of the Campus Campaign.

For more information about the Campus Campaign, contact Tooks at lstooks@ualr.edu or at 501-916-6439 visit .

The post 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Launches 2024 Campus Campaign with Chancellor Match Challenge appeared first on News.

Tooks has been appointed to a two-year term as the Director of District IV Awards Co-chair, where she will be responsible for overseeing the district鈥檚 award programs, including chairing the Hall of Fame Award, Rising Star Award, and E. Joseph Savoie Chief Executive Leadership Award, and Top Hand Award.

鈥淚 am very excited about my new role with CASE,鈥� Tooks said. 鈥淚 think this will be a good opportunity for me to grow professionally, and I am grateful for the opportunity.鈥�

Among her new duties, Tooks will be responsible for recruiting judges, securing nominations, spotlighting winners, developing a stewardship program, supporting membership engagement, and coordinating with the communications and social media director to highlight people and program awards on social media.

Tooks received a scholarship for new professionals to attend the 2023 CASE District IV Conference. She also served as a member of the Program Committee for the 2024 Conference, where she helped to select speakers and plan this year鈥檚 conference.

Tooks, a native of Camden, joined the 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Office of Alumni and Development in 2022. As director of annual giving, she is responsible for the management and implementation of the 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Foundation鈥檚 annual giving program.

She has made great strides since she took over the Campus Campaign and even presented about the success of the program during a session called 鈥淓mployee Giving 101: Revitalizing the Program鈥� at the 2024 CASE District IV Conference in San Antonio, Texas. She also participated in a panel discussion about the future of advancement in the next 50 years.

鈥淚 had the opportunity to meet some really great people during the conference,鈥� she said. 鈥淏eing a speaker at this year鈥檚 CASE Conference gave me the opportunity to learn and to grow personally and professionally. I am looking forward to growing those connections and building more relationships with professionals in advancement and higher education.鈥�

Tooks is an active member of the community, serving as a member of the Alliance Ambassadors Program for Arkansas Hunger Relief Alliance, the 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Staff Senate, the Hope (Helping Overcome Poverty through Education) scholarship committee at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Children International, and the Friends of City Parks Conservancy. Last year, she was named to Arkansas Business鈥� 2023 Class of 20 in Their Twenties, which puts the spotlight on talented young leaders in the state鈥檚 business and nonprofit community.

The post Tooks Named to New Leadership Position in CASE appeared first on News.

Muriel Schrepfer, graphic designer in the Office of Communications and Marketing, has received the Ben Fry Service to 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Award. The award recipient is an individual who is distinctive in service through committees, special events, implementation of creative ideas or support, and encouragement of others.

鈥淚’m honored to receive this award for my service and contributions to 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock,鈥� Schrepfer said. 鈥淚 thoroughly enjoy serving on committees and volunteering at our campus events. The collaboration and partnerships across campus and this recognition fuel my enthusiasm to strive for excellence, continue making a positive impact, and support our campus community.鈥�

Daniel Breen, news director for Little Rock Public Radio, has received the Community Service Award. This award recipient has been particularly successful in organizing community events or had major achievements in civic, service, or specialty organizations/events.

鈥淚 am beyond grateful to receive this year鈥檚 Staff Senate Community Service Award,鈥� Breen said. 鈥淚鈥檓 so lucky to get to work every day with such a dedicated staff whose first goal is looking out for the public, and each other. I鈥檓 honored to be considered among so many other dedicated, talented people who work every day to make 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock, and their community, a better place. I look forward to continuing our work to be a better neighbor and to reach people where they鈥檙e at to better inform them of the decisions and policies that most affect their day-to-day life.鈥�

Additionally, Tamela Cane, resource family coordinator for MidSOUTH, has received the Personal Growth Award. The award winner is described as an individual whose scholarship, research, or creative talent has been particularly outstanding.

鈥淭his is such an honor!鈥� Cane said. 鈥淚 am humbled to be recognized amongst a campus full of so many professionals. This is definitely a manifestation of an answered prayer!”

The three winners will receive a $3,000 award distributed via payroll distributions. 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Alumni Association Board of Director members Becky Flynn and Grady McCorkle served as judges.

“Congratulations to all of our winners this year,鈥� said Laterika Tooks, Staff Senate president-elect and director of annual giving. 鈥淭hank you for making a difference both on and off campus.”

More information about the Staff Achievement Award winners:

Ben Fry Service to 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Award

Schrepfer has been selected for the Ben Fry Service to 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Award for her exceptional contributions to the 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock community through her outstanding work as a graphic designer.

鈥淢uriel’s creative work is exceptional in helping to tell the university’s stories,鈥� said Angie Faller, news director, who nominated Schrepfer. 鈥淵ou will see her work in everything from newspaper ads to event flyers to slides on the digital marquee to billboards. Everywhere you look at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock, you are likely to find an inspiring graphic that was created by Muriel. Her dedication to supporting and enhancing our university community through her graphic design expertise is truly commendable.鈥�

In the past year, Schrepfer has taken on some transformative projects, including the implementation of Marq as a campus design solution and the redesign of the 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Brand Guide, an essential guide that contains important information about how 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock should communicate with and present its story to the community.

She also serves on a number of committees and is actively involved in campus life. Schrepfer serves in the positions of staff liaison and co-chair of the Wesley Foundation Board. She is also a member of Safe Zone, SpectacuaLR, and the Eclipse celebration planning committees as well as collaborative committees with Admissions, Athletics, and the Graduate School.

鈥淢uriel has made significant contributions to 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock through her hard work and commitment to building collaboration with our campus partners,鈥� said Dr. Carrie Phillips, chief communications and marketing officer. 鈥淗er service has positively impacted both staff and students, making her a deserving recipient of this award.鈥�

Staff Achievement Award in Community Service

Breen, a 2018 mass communication graduate of 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock, has received the Staff Achievement Award in Community Service for his hard work and dedication in keeping the public informed through his community reporting. He is a familiar voice on Little Rock Public Radio, serving as a reporter, anchor, former Morning Edition host, news director, and co-host and producer of The Arkansas NewsWrap.

Breen can often be found hard at work in the community, talking to the public about subjects that matter.

鈥淢y neighborhood was hit by the tornado (in 2023), and I remember driving down the street and seeing Daniel out talking to people and bringing their stories to the wider community,鈥� said Merrill Wells of Little Rock Public Radio, who nominated Breen. 鈥淒aniel Breen has been a fixture in the community at town halls, voting polls, bringing 鈥業ssues that Matter鈥� program to the community and even helped orchestrate an 鈥楢rkansas NewsWrap鈥� program collaborating with other radio news directors across Arkansas.鈥�

Jonathan Seaborn, general manager of Little Rock Public Radio, said that Breen has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to excellence and a profound dedication to the community through his outstanding work in journalism.

鈥淒aniel鈥檚 passion for storytelling and his relentless pursuit of truth have been evident in the quality and depth of his reporting,鈥� Seaborn said. 鈥淗e has tackled a wide range of issues, from local politics to social justice, with sensitivity and insight, shedding light on important issues and giving voice to those who often go unheard.鈥�

Additionally, Breen is actively involved in community outreach initiatives, participating in panel discussions, hosting public forums, and engaging with listeners to ensure that Little Rock Public Radio鈥檚 coverage reflects the diverse perspectives and concerns of the community.

鈥淗is impact on the community is massive as hundreds and thousands of Arkansans would wake up hearing his voice as the morning edition host and bringing the local news,鈥� Wells said. 鈥淭here are a devout group of fans who call themselves 鈥楤reenies鈥� that donate to support public radio and community engagement.鈥�

Breen鈥檚 impressive community reporting skills have earned him awards from the Arkansas Pro Chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists, Arkansas Press Women, National Federation of Press Women, and the Arkansas-Oklahoma Associated Press Broadcasters.

Staff Achievement Award in Personal Growth

Cane has worked at MidSOUTH since 2012, starting out as a resource family trainer before becoming a technical writer, where she developed and maintained written and online training material. As the resource family coordinator for MidSOUTH鈥檚 Resource Family Program, she provides meaningful learning and training experiences for newly hired resource family trainers and prospective foster and adoptive families.

鈥淭ami has consistently demonstrated good initiative in fulfilling the task of providing meaningful learning experiences for prospective resource family trainers, foster families, and adoptive families,鈥� said Leisa Myles, director of MidSOUTH鈥檚 Resource Family Program, who nominated Cane. 鈥淪he approaches her job in a manner that allows individuals to enhance their skill level and knowledge. Her dedication to child welfare, MidSOUTH鈥檚 mission statement, and the University of Arkansas at Little Rock are unparalleled.鈥�

According to Myles, Cane鈥檚 most outstanding achievement took place last year when she created a new training curriculum for MidSOUTH. Cane was selected as a member of Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders鈥� Executive Order to Protect Children, Support Families, and Improve the Foster Care System in Arkansas sub-committees, where she worked on a plan to revise the Resource Family Training Program at MidSOUTH.

The Arkansas Division of Children and Family Services selected the National Training Development Curriculum for Traditional Resource Families to replace the current training curriculum for the Resource Family Training Program. Cane participated in a Training the Trainer session with the National Training and Development Curriculum to help prepare the transition to the new training curriculum, Connecting AR Families. Cane organized a facilitator鈥檚 guide specific to the state.

At 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock, Cane has served on Staff Senate, the Arkansas Conference on Child Abuse and Neglect Registration and Planning Committee, MidSOUTH Annual Summer Conference Registration Committee, and the MidSOUTH Prevention Summit Registration Committee.

The post 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Honors Schrepfer, Breen, Cane with 2024 Staff Achievement Awards appeared first on News.

The next Woman to Watch at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock of 2024 is Laterika Tooks, director of annual giving for the Office of Alumni and Development.

Tell us about yourself and your background.

I grew up in Stephens, Arkansas, and graduated from Camden Fairview High School in Camden, Arkansas. I have three sisters and one brother. I am newly engaged, and we have two fur babies, Bentley and Bella. Outside of work, I am a wedding and event planner. I love networking and meeting new people, and I鈥檓 grateful for the opportunities that I have had over the years to connect with people from various backgrounds.

I am a first-generation college graduate and made 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock my choice for receiving my undergraduate degree in 2014. I graduated a semester early in December 2017, earning my Bachelor of Business Administration with an emphasis in Entrepreneurship. After working in retail for two years, I transitioned to hospitality and was promoted from sales administrative assistant to catering sales manager at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Little Rock after three months of employment.

Due to the pandemic, I was furloughed in 2020 and had to restart my job search, where I was hired as the constituents events manager for the Alzheimer鈥檚 Association-Arkansas Chapter the following year. Then came the opportunity for me to come back to my alma mater and work in the Office of Alumni and Development.

What is your current position and professional duties at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock?

I am the director of annual giving. I spend my day building relationships with annual donors and also working on increasing our donor base with individuals to support the university鈥檚 annual giving program. Another facet of my role involves spending my time working on our campus campaign, which is our university-wide endeavor that gives our faculty and staff an opportunity to give back to and support the university.

What brought you to 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock?

Having graduated from 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock, I felt taking on the role to serve as the director of annual giving was the perfect opportunity to make an impact in a different way. Being able to advocate for students, faculty, and staff has given me the opportunity to meet the many people who work hard every day doing what they love, as well as make connections with our community partners.

What are some of the exciting projects that you are working on at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock?

My biggest project right now is Trojan Champions. Trojan Champions is a new initiative aimed at fostering greater support for college students by increasing donations that provide students with expanded opportunities to thrive academically, professionally, and personally. Anyone can become a Trojan Champion, so if you want to learn more about this inaugural group, email me at lstooks@ualr.edu.

What woman has inspired you the most and why?

I have three women who have inspired me the most. Both of my grandmothers, who also share the same birthday, were two very resilient, family-oriented, and strong-willed women who taught me to love and protect those closest to me. While they both had enough sass for us all, they embodied the true meaning of family and the importance of being present.

Another woman that has inspired me is my mom. She taught me to use my voice and stand up for myself and those around me who needed it. I have a piece of all of these ladies instilled in me. Because of them, my work ethic, drive, and determination have gotten me to where I am today. I have the confidence to go after everything I want out of this life and the determination to not stop until I have achieved everything that is meant for me.

What advice would you give to the next generation of female leaders?

Go after what makes you happy and don鈥檛 settle. Being a female leader might put you in a position that may make others uncomfortable, however, their level of comfort is not your responsibility. Success is what you make it, so don鈥檛 feel like you have to keep up with the next person to be successful. Your success may look different than theirs.

Name something about yourself that most people would be surprised to learn.

I love to fish.

What is your favorite quote and why?

鈥淵ou miss 100% of the shots you don鈥檛 take.鈥� To me, it means that if you don鈥檛 take advantage of opportunities while you have the ability, you may miss out.

The post Women to Watch at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock: Laterika Tooks appeared first on News.

鈥淲e are happy to introduce Trojan Champions, a new initiative that underscores our unwavering commitment to student success,鈥� said Kristi Smith, associate vice chancellor for alumni and development. 鈥淲ith alumni engagement at an all-time high, this program opens doors for students to explore exciting opportunities at the next level.”

All Trojan Champions pledge to make an annual donation to the 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Annual Fund for three years or more. Donations to the Annual Fund are unrestricted and can be used for a variety of opportunities to help students succeed.

鈥淚 became a Trojan Champion because I have benefited immensely from 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock and want to pay it forward,鈥� said Donovan Colclough, an alumnus who recently joined Trojan Champions. 鈥淚 live our mantra of 鈥楨xpect More鈥� out loud, especially as I look within and consider how I can help keep the path of success open for our future alumni.鈥�

Such funds could be used to establish a fund that enables 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock students to showcase their talents at prestigious venues like Carnegie Hall, participate in national competitions, or engage in academic competitions. A current example of a gift in action are custom blazers for real estate students provided by Paul Rainwater at Q Clothier. These students will be outfitted for success when they participate in an upcoming national real estate challenge.

鈥淎s a Trojan Champion, you have the chance to empower students in a manner that suits you best,鈥� said Laterika Tooks, director of annual giving. 鈥淲e have had an overwhelmingly positive response from alumni who want to play a role in championing our students. Having graduated from 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock, I recognize the significance of both on and off campus experiences, and this opportunity allows our alumni and friends to make a direct, positive impact on students benefiting from these unrestricted funds.”

With a focus on empowering the next generation of philanthropists, 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock seeks to harness the collective generosity of its alumni community to pave the way for enhanced educational experiences and brighter futures for students from all walks of life. Trojan Champions represents a new opportunity for alumni to have an immediate impact on students.

鈥淚’ve wanted to find a consistent way to give to the university for a while, but no one ever talks about how intimidating giving can be when you already have the many financial obligations that come with raising a family, and you don’t have tens of thousands of dollars to spare,鈥� Trojan Champion Guy Choate said. 鈥淭he Trojan Champions Program gives me a responsible entry point that can still make an impact at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock.鈥�

New Trojan Champion Becky Flynn, director of development for the Women鈥檚 Foundation of Arkansas, said it was important for her to become a Trojan Champion to support student success at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock.

鈥淭his is a chance to donate directly to opportunities that create that success,鈥� Flynn said. 鈥淚t is my hope that 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock students are provided every opportunity to excel, inside and outside of the classroom. Knowing that this fund supports growth and development for current and future Trojans is what made me want to support the program. I appreciate 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock for continuing to find innovative ways to advance students!”

糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock has a goal of welcoming the first 100 Trojan Champions by June 30, 2025. The generous contributions from these and future Trojan Champions is set to make a lasting impact by empowering students to build their dreams and construct a brighter future for themselves and their communities. This program is a part of the Centennial Campaign, which has a goal to raise $250 million in celebration of the university鈥檚 100-year anniversary in 2027.

For more information on how to become a Trojan Champion, or contact Tooks at lstooks@ualr.edu or 501-916-6439.

The post Empowering Futures: 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Launches Innovative Initiative to Boost Donations for Student Opportunities appeared first on News.

糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock employees, students, alumni, and community members can nominate an outstanding staff member through March 14 in three categories: personal achievement, service to the university, and community service.

The winners will receive a $3,000 award, distributed via payroll. The winners will be announced during a drop-in celebration from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Thursday, April 18 in the Donaghey Student Center Leadership Lounge. Staff members who are celebrating work anniversaries, have graduated in the past year, and retiring will also be recognized.

The three categories for nominations are:

• Personal Growth – Recognition will go to an individual whose scholarship, research, or creative talent has been particularly outstanding.
• Ben Fry Service to 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock – Recognition will go to an individual who is distinctive in service through committees, special events, implementation of creative ideas or support and encouragement of others.

• Community Service – Recognition will go to an individual who has been particularly successful in organizing community events or had major achievements in civic, service, or specialty organizations/events.

In addition to the Staff Achievement Awards, applications are available for a $1,000  Staff Senate Scholarship and two Jerry Crittenden Employee Book Scholarships, worth $75 each, for staff members who are furthering their education at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock.

To fill out a nomination form for the Staff Achievement Awards and Staff Senate scholarships, visit the Staff Senate website.

For more information, please contact Laterika Tooks at lstooks@ualr.edu.

The post 2024 Staff Achievement Awards, Scholarship Applications Open Through March 14 appeared first on News.

This resounding success not only showcases the collective spirit that defines the university but also highlights the enduring commitment of its community to invest in the institution’s mission and future.

鈥淭his accomplishment is a testament to the dedication and generosity of our campus community,鈥� said Dr. Aresh Assadi, director of Counseling Services and chair of the Campus Campaign. 鈥淩eaching this participation level is not only a numerical success but also speaks to the sense of unity and commitment among our employees. I believe that boosting internal participation is crucial as it positively impacts our external fundraising efforts, creating a strong foundation for the university’s growth and development.鈥�

Reaching this goal speaks to the shared belief in the transformative power of education and the collective impact of small acts of giving. Altogether, nearly 350 university employees donated to 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock during 2023.

“The spirited engagement of our dedicated faculty and staff in the Campus Campaign goes beyond monetary contributions,鈥� said Christian O鈥橬eal, vice chancellor for university advancement. 鈥淭his wholehearted internal support significantly fortifies our university’s standing as we approach external donors for major gifts. It communicates a compelling message 鈥� that those intimately connected to the university are wholeheartedly committed to its mission. This collective investment not only enhances our credibility but also amplifies our appeal when seeking external funds. I want to extend my sincere gratitude to the staff, faculty, and administrators who played instrumental roles in organizing this year’s campaign. With the capable assistance of Laterika Tooks and Kristi Smith, it became a total team effort. Witnessing such collaboration makes me immensely proud to be a Trojan.”

The university owes a special thanks to the dedicated employees who helped lead the Campus Campaign effort across campus. Campus Campaign Steering Committee members included Assadi, Mark Baillie, Shelia Brooks, Sikia Brown, Jessie Burchfield, Anthony Buttrum, Katrina Christopher, Reed Claiborne, Shannon Collier-Tenison, andre cummings, Joe Felan, Tyler Harrison, Carrie Phillips, Derek Slagle, Judy Staley, Joanne Matson, Brandy Dixon, and Emily Bell.

Campus Campaign Ambassadors included Katie Helms, Dawn Johnson, Sadie Lea, Monica Meadows, Leisa Myles, Vanessa Whitman, Angela Willis, April Chatham-Capenter, Mercades Parker, Bobbie Handcock, Salina Ables, Reteisha Byrd, Morgan Leyenberger, Mohammad Goodarzi, Keith Harris, Mary French, Rachel Mercado, Belinda Nix, Cynthia Dedner, Al Baker, Jennifer Lampkin, Anne Turner, Grace Zafasi, and Mary Tillman.

鈥淭he dedication of our Steering Committee and Campus Ambassadors was evident throughout the campus, and I had the opportunity to observe the effort they invested behind the scenes,鈥� said Laterika Tooks, director of annual giving at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock. 鈥淚 feel fortunate to collaborate with numerous faculty and staff members who are enthusiastic about their roles and committed to the development and achievement of this university.鈥�

A total of 18 campus departments achieved 100 percent giving in 2023, which is 50 percent more than 2022.

Those departments include Alumni and Development, Applied Communication, the Bursar鈥檚 Office, the Chancellor鈥檚 Office, Concurrent Enrollment, Counseling Services, Disability Resource Center, Financial Aid and Scholarships, Financial Services, Institute of Chief Data Officers, Mail Services, Marketing and Communications, Office of Military Student Success, Sequoyah National Research Center, Study Abroad, Student Retention Initiatives, Testing and Student Life Research, and the Trojan Transition and Assistance Center.

Bobbie Handcock, a web content specialist who served as a campus ambassador, said that she likes to donate to causes like the Trojan Food Pantry or to help buy caps and gowns for graduating students.

鈥淚 work at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock, and I鈥檓 also a graduate student,鈥� Handcock said. 鈥淚鈥檝e been able to see things from a student鈥檚 perspective and talk with my classmates about challenges that they may face. I know how important it is to have support 鈥� both financially and academically. The Campus Campaign generates funds to help students succeed and reach their goals.鈥�

As a campus campaign ambassador, Handcock explained how a gift to the university is an investment in future leaders, innovators, and professionals.

鈥淏y donating, you can help provide scholarships, financial aid, and resources to students who might not otherwise have the means to pursue a college education,鈥� Handcock said. 鈥淏y contributing, you can help feed someone who is hungry or clothe someone who needs business attire for a job interview. I shared ways that they could support the campaign, including purchasing a legacy brick, giving to an area that means the most to them or giving a gift-in-kind such as to the Trojan Career Closet. I encouraged them to remember that it doesn鈥檛 matter what you give, as long as you give.鈥�

The gifts are a part of the Centennial Campaign, 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock鈥檚 fundraising campaign to raise $250 million in celebration of the university鈥檚 100-year anniversary in 2027. The Campus Campaign was part of a cumulative fundraising year that netted more than $22 million for 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock. Visit to learn more about the Centennial Campaign.

The post Spirit of Giving: 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Surpasses Campus Campaign Goal appeared first on News.

Giving Tuesday is all about supporting causes that are close to your heart, and providing students with an affordable, high-quality, and accessible education means the world to us at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock, where we are igniting a movement to transform lives and shape the future.

糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock is celebrating its Centennial Campaign, which honors the university鈥檚 upcoming 100-year anniversary in 2027. Generous donors like yourselves have already donated more than $180 million to help reach the campaign goal of $250 million.

鈥淭his Giving Tuesday we hope you鈥檒l join us in creating a brighter future for Arkansas students through our Centennial Campaign at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock,鈥� said Christian O鈥橬eal, vice chancellor for university advancement. 鈥淥ur goal is to raise $250 million in our Centennial Campaign that will educate future leaders and further strengthen our state. Your support this holiday season will help students succeed and leave a lasting legacy for Arkansas.鈥�

Your support will make a profound impact in four key areas: scholarships, student support, program excellence, and the living and learning environment. From funding scholarships that unlock doors for aspiring students to investing in cutting-edge research and innovative programs, every contribution becomes a catalyst for positive change to take 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock to new heights.

Visit the Centennial Campaign website to make a donation to support 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock students. If you want to donate to support a specific need in one of our academic departments, please email Laterika Tooks or call 501-916-6439 to learn more about ongoing opportunities.

The post Empowering Tomorrow: Transform Student Lives with a Giving Tuesday Donation to 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock appeared first on News.

鈥淚 am really excited for this opportunity,鈥� Tooks said. 鈥淚 feel that Staff Senate gives staff members a voice and an opportunity to make a difference on campus. I am looking forward to making connections and building relationships with other staff members across campus.鈥�

As chair of the Campus Campaign, Tooks first became involved in Staff Senate when she would speak to the group about campus giving and volunteer opportunities. She now serves as chair of the Fundraising Committee and the Staff Awards Committee, which selects the Staff Achievement Award winners and runs the annual Staff Awards Ceremony.

鈥淭hrough my work with the Campus Campaign, I鈥檝e had the opportunity to make connections across the campus,鈥� she said. 鈥淢y new role in Staff Senate will help me build on those connections and grow as a person. We are in the middle of our Centennial Campaign, working to raise money for scholarships, student support, program excellence, and the living and learning environment. I look forward to showing our community what a difference 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock can make.鈥�

Tooks, a native of Camden, joined the 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Office of Alumni and Development in 2022. As director of annual giving, she is responsible for the management and implementation of the 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Foundation鈥檚 annual giving program. She is already on track to double yearly giving efforts through the campus campaign. Earlier this fall, she was named to Arkansas Business鈥� 2023 Class of 20 in Their Twenties, which puts the spotlight on talented young leaders in the state鈥檚 business and nonprofit community.

She is an active member of the community, serving as a member of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) strategic planning committee, the Hope (Helping Overcome Poverty through Education) scholarship committee at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Children International, and the Friends of City Parks Conservancy. She also serves as a board member for the Arkansas Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals and a member of the Program Committee for the Council for Advancement and Support of Education District IV.

Tooks has a passion for working with community nonprofit organizations. She is a member of the Alliance Ambassadors Program for Arkansas Hunger Relief Alliance and participated in the Alzheimer鈥檚 Association鈥檚 Walk to End Alzheimer鈥檚 in 2021. She has a goal to build a community garden close to where she lives in Alexander and is working with the Arkansas Community Foundation on this project.

Tooks earned a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock in 2017. Prior to 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock, she worked as an event sales manager at Embassy Suites by Hilton Little Rock and as a constituent events manager for the Alzheimer鈥檚 Association.

The post Tooks Named President-Elect of Staff Senate appeared first on News.

鈥淚 feel blessed to be named one of the members of the new class of 20 in Their Twenties, and I feel honored to know that there are people who think so highly of me at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock,鈥� Tooks said. 鈥淚 am thankful to all the people around me who encourage me to continue to succeed in my career.鈥�

Each year, Arkansas Business puts the spotlight on talented young leaders in the state鈥檚 business and nonprofit community. This year’s honorees range from educators and engineers to lawyers and rising stars in the financial sector.

Each “20 in Their Twenties” class is chosen by an internal committee reviewing more than 200 nominations with an eye toward accomplishments, responsibilities, and people clearly ahead of their time. All honorees are those under 30 who have made an impact on their company or community as well as show the potential to be a leader in business or politics.

鈥淎t only 27 years old, Laterika has made an impact both professionally and philanthropically through her dedication to helping improve her community,鈥� said Christian O鈥橬eal, vice chancellor of university advancement. 鈥淪he has stepped into challenging leadership roles that demonstrate her continuous effort to make a difference in Arkansas and her drive for professional excellence. Her future is bright as she continues to pour out ideas and set goals for creating positive change in her state, both now and for the future.鈥�

Tooks, a native of Camden, joined the 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Office of Alumni and Development in 2022. As director of annual giving, she is responsible for the management and implementation of the 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Foundation鈥檚 annual giving program. She is already on track to double yearly giving efforts through the campus campaign.

She is an active member of the community, serving as a member of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) strategic planning committee and the Hope (Helping Overcome Poverty through Education) scholarship committee at 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock Children International. She also serves as a board member for the Arkansas Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals.

Tooks has a passion for working with community nonprofit organizations. She is an active volunteer for Meals on Wheels and participated in the Alzheimer鈥檚 Association鈥檚 Walk to End Alzheimer’s in 2021. She has a goal to build a community garden close to where she lives in Alexander and is working with the Arkansas Community Foundation on this project. Through the development of a community garden, she hopes to combat food insecurity and strengthen her community by providing access to clean, healthy, and nutritious food.

Tooks earned a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock in 2017. Prior to 糖心Vlog传媒 Little Rock, she worked as an event sales manager at Embassy Suites by Hilton Little Rock and as a constituent events manager for the Alzheimer鈥檚 Association.

All members of the 20 in Their Twenties will have their profiles featured in a special supplement of Arkansas Business to be distributed on Sept. 11.

The post Tooks Named Arkansas Business 20 in Their Twenties Honoree appeared first on News.